WHAT IS ZINFANDEL?

Zinfandel (also known as Primitivo) is a black-skinned grape. DNA analysis reveals it is genetically equivalent to the Croatian grapes Crljenak Kaštelanski and Tribidrag, as well as to the Italian grape Primitivo. The grape found its way to the United States in the mid-19th century, where its known by variations of a name applied to a different grape, likely “Zierfandler” from Austria.

WHAT DOES IT TASTE LIKE?

Zinfandel falls into two categories…they are either masculine or feminine, and the style largely depends on where the grapes are grown, and the result of the winemaker’s decision-making abilities. Feminine Zinfandel are soft and pretty, whereas masculine styles are bold and assertive.

A decade ago, most Zinfandel would fall into the masculine style, and barbeque was on the “must-pair” food list across the nation. Today, things are changing. Zinfandel can be quite esoteric, soft and round.

WHERE DOES IT GROW?

The variety is grown in over 10 percent of California vineyards. It’s also grown in Italy, and Croatia, with other small plantings in Australia, Chile, Canada and South Africa.

ZINFANDEL GRAPE PROFILE

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